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58th Congress, ) HOUSE OF KEFKESENTATIVES. J Document 

1st Session. \ \ No. 8. 



L^/ 



CORRESPONDENCE, ETC., RELATING TO THE RECENT 
REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 



MESSAGE 

FROM THE 

PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, 

TRANSMITTING, 

IN RESPONSE TO RESOLUTION OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTA- 
TIVES OF NOVEMBER 9, 1903, ALL CORRESPONDENCE AND 
OTHER OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS RELATING TO THE RECENT 
REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 



November 16, 1903. — Message and accompanying, papers referred to the Committee 
on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed. 



To the House of Bejyresentatives : 

In response to a resolution of the House of Representatives of Novem- 
ber 9, 1903, requesting the President "to communicate to the House 
if not, in his judgment, incompatible with the interests of the public 
service, all correspondence and other official documents relating to the 
recent revolution on the Isthmus of Panama," I transmit herewith 
copies of the papers called for. 

Theodore Roosevelt. 

White House, Washington., Novemher 16., 1903. 



The President: 

The Secretary of State, to whom was referred a copy of the resolu- 
tion of the House of Representatives of November 9, 1903, requesting 
copies of all correspondence and other official documents relating to 
the recent revolution on the Isthmus of Panama, has the honor to lay 
l)efore the President copies of the correspondence from and to tlie 
Department of State on the subject. 

Respectful 1}^ submitted. 

John Hay. 

Department of State, 

Washington., November 13, 1903. 



/ 



2 REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND 
THE UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL AT PANAMA. 

A press bulletin having announced an outbreak on the Isthmus, the 
following cablegram was sent both to the consulate-general at Panama 
and the consulate at Colon: c '^jj ""'^ 

Department of State, ^ '^^ 
Washington^ Noveniber 3, 1903. * 

(Sent 3.40 p.m.) 
Uprising on Isthmus reported. Keep Department promptly and 
fully informed. 

LoOMis, Acting. 



M7\ Ehnnan to Mr. Hay. 

Panama, November 3, 1903. 

(Received 8.15 p. m.) 
No uprising yet. Reported will be in the night. Situation is critical. 

Ehrman. 



Mr. Ehrman to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] • 

Panama, Noveimber 3, 1903. 

(Received 9.50 p. m.) 
Uprising occurred to-night, 6; no bloodshed. Army and navy oiS- 
cials taken prisoners. Government will be organized to-night, con- 
sisting three consuls, also cabinet. Soldiers changed. Supposed same 
movement will be effected in Colon. Order prevails so far. Situation 
serious. Four hundred soldiers landed Colon to-day Barranquilla. 

Ehkman. 



3£r. Loomis to Mr. Ehrman. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 

Washington., Noveniber 3., 1903. 

(Sent 11.18 p. m.) 
Message sent to Nashville to Colon may not have been delivered. 
Accordingly see that following message is sent to Nashville immedi- 
ately : 
Nashville, Colon: 

In the interests of peace make every effort to prevent Government troops at Colon 
from proceeding to Panama. The transit of the Isthmus must be kept open and 
order mamtained. Acknowledge. (Signed) Darling, Active/. 

Secure special train, if necessary. Act promptly. 

S —^P^V LooMis, Acting. 



REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 6 

Mr. Loomis to Mr. Ehnnan. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Wmhington^ November J^., 1903. 

(Sent 12.02 p. m.) 
Communicate with commander of gunboat Bogota and state plainly 
that this Government being responsible for maintaining peace and 
keeping transit open across Isthmus desires him to refrain from wan- 
tonly shelling the Q\tj. We shall have a naval force at Panama in two 
days, and are now ordering men from the Nashmlle to Panama in the 
interests of peace. 

LooMis, Acting. 



Mi'. Ehrtiian to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, Wovember .^, 1903. 

(Received 7.10 p. m.) 
Mass meeting held. Independence publicly declared. Three con- 
suls approved organize government, composed Federico Boyd, Jose 
Agustin Arango, Tomas Arias. Bogota in sight. 

Eheman. 



J//'. JSh'Tiian to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, Nomniber If, 1903. 

(Received 9.50 a. m.) 
Cables JSfashmlle received. Nashville notified. Troops will not be 
moved. Last night gunboat Bogota fired several shells on city; one 
Chinaman killed. Bogota threatens bombard city to-day. 

Ehrman. 



Mr. Ehnnan to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, Novemher 5, 1903. 

(Received 12.50 p. m.) 
Received an ofiicial circular letter from the committee of the provi- 
sional government saying that on 4th political move occurred, and the 
Department of Panama withdraws from the Republic of the United 
States of Colombia and formed the Republic of Panama. 
Requested to acknowledge the receipt of circular letter. 

Ehrman. 



4 EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

Mr. Loomis to Mr. Ekvman. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Washington., .Novernljer 5, 1903. 

(Sent 3.15 p. m.) 
Acknowledge the receipt of circular letter and await instructions 
before taking any further action in this line. 

Loomis, Acting. 

Mr. Loomis to Mr. EJiTrnan. 

■ ■ [Telegram.] 

Department of State, 

Washington., Novemher 5, 1903. 

(Sent 5.09 p. m.) 
Keep Department informed as to situation. 

Loomis, Acting. 

Mr. Ehrmcin to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, November 5, 1903. 

(Received 9.42 p. m.) 
Colombian troops reembarked per Roj^al Mail for Carthagena. 
Bogota supposed at Buenaventura. Quiet prevails. 

Eheman. 



Mr. Ehrman to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, November 6, 1903. 

(Received 11.55 a. m.) 
The situation is peaceful. Isthmian movement has obtained so far 
success. Colon and interior provinces have enthusiasticall}" joined 
independence. Not any Colombian soldiers known on isthmian soil at 
present. Padilla equipped to pursue Bogota. Bunau Varilla has 
been appointed officially confidential agent of the Republic of Panama 
at Washington. 

Ehrman. 



Mr. Hay to Mr. Ehrman. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Washington, November 6, 1903. 

(Sent 12.51 p. m.) 
The people of Panama have, by an apparently unanimous movement, 
dissolved their political connection with the Republic of Colombia and 



REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 5 

resumed their independence. When you are satisfied that a de facto 
government, republican in form, and without substantial opposition 
from its own people, has been established in the State of Panama, you 
will enter into relations with it as the responsible government of the 
territory and look to it for all due action to protect the persons and 
property of citizens of the United States and to keep open the isthmian 
transit in accordance with the obligations of existing treaties govern- 
ing the relation of the United States to that territory. 

Communicate above to Malmros, who will be governed by these 
instructions in entering into relations with the local authorities. 

Hay. 



3f7\ Hay to Mr. Elmnan. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 

Washington., Novemher 6, 1903. 

(Sent 2.45 p. m.) 

I send, for your information and guidance in the execution of the 
instructions cabled to you to-day, the text of a telegram dispached this 
day to the United States minister at Bogota: 

The people of Panama having by an apparently unanimous movement dissolved 
their political connection with the Kepublic of Colombia and resumed their inde- 
pendence, and having adopted a government of their own, republican in form, with 
which the Government of the United States of America has entered into relations, 
the President of the United States, in accordance with the ties of friendship which 
have so long and so happily existed between the respective nations, most earnestly 
commends to the Governments of Colombia and of Panama the peaceful and equit- 
able settlement of all questions at issue between them. He holds that he is bound, 
not merely by treaty obligations, but by the interests of civilization, to see that the 
peaceable'traffic of the world across the Isthmus of Panama shall not longer be dis- 
turbed by a constant succession of unnecessarv and wasteful civil wars. 

Hay. 



Mr. Ehrman to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, Nommher ^, 190S. 

(Received 7.23 p. m.) 
Filippe Bunau Varilla has been appointed envoy extraordinary and 
minister plenipotentiary to the United States of America. Perfect 
quiet. 

Ehrman. 



Mr. Ehrman to Mr. Hay. 

■ [Telegram.] 

Panama, November <§, 1903. 

(Received 11.23 p. m.) 

It is reported that Colombian authorities have detained English 
steamers Manavi and Quito at Buenaventura. Supposed to be to bring 
troops to the Isthmus. 

Ehrman 



b REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

Mr. Elirman to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, November 7, 1903. 

(Received 12.20 p. m.) 
I hare communicated to Panama Government that the}" will be held 
responsible for the protection of the persons and property of citizens 
of the United States, as well as to keep the isthmian transit free in 
accordance with obligations of existing treaties relative to the isth- 
mian territory. 

Ehrman. 



Mr. Ehrman to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, Novemher 10, 1903. 

(Received 1.35 p. m.) 
Federico Boyd, a member of the Committee of the Government, 
Amador Guerrero, both delegates, on the way to Washington to 
arrange in satisfactory manner to the United States the canal treaty and 
other matters. Pablo Arosemena, attornej^, proceeds next steamer. 
English steamers were not held at Buenaventura. Gunboat Bogota 
has left Buenaventura. 

Eheman. 



Mr. Loomis to Mr. Ehrman. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Washington., November 10., 1903. 

(Sent 3.42 p. m.) 
Keep in touch with commander of United States naval forces at 
Panama, advising him concerning news bearing on military situation. 

LooMis, Acting. 



Mr. Ehrnum to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Panama, Novemher 11, 1903. 

(Received 5.32 p. m.) 
I am officially informed that Bunau Varilla is the authorized party 
to make treaties. Bo3^d and Amador have other missions and to assist 
their minister. 

Ehrman. 



KEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 7 

CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT OE STATE AND 
THE UNITED STATES CONSULATE AT COLON. 

Mr. Malmros to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Colon, Novemher ^, 190S. 

(Received 2.35 p. m.) 
Revolution imminent. Government force on the Isthmus about 500 
men. Their official promised support revolution. Fire department 
Panama, 441, are well organized and favor revolution. Government 
Vessel, Cartagena, with about 400 men, arrived early to-day with new 
commander in chief, Tobar. Was not expected until November 10. 
Tobar's arrival is not probable to stop revolution. 

Malmros. 



Mr. Loomis to Mr. Malmros. 



[Telegram.] 



Department of State, 
Washington, November ^, 1903. 

(Sent 4 p. m.) 

Are troops from the vessel Cartagena disembarking or preparing to 
land? 

Loomis. 



Mr. Loomis to Mr. Malmros. 



[Telegram.] 



Department of State. 

Washington, November 3, 1903. 

(Sent 4.28 p. m.) 
Did you received and deliver to Nashville last night or early this 
morning a message % 

Loomis, Acting. 



Mr. Malmros to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Colon, Novemler 3, 1903. 

(Received 8.20 p. m.) 
Troops from vessel Cartagena have disembarked; are encamping on 
Pacific dock awaiting orders to proceed to Panama from commander 
in chief, who went there this morning. No message for Nashville 
received. 

Malmros. 



O EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

Mf. Looniis to Mr. Mahnros. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 

Washington., November 3^ 1903, 

(Sent 8.45 p. m.) 
The troops which landed from the GaHagena should not proceed to 
Panama. 

LooMis, Acting. 



Mr. Loomis to Mr. Mal-mros. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Washington^ November 5, 1903. 

(Sent 10.10 p. m.) 
An important message was sent at 6 Monday night in your care for 
the Nashville. Make all possible effort to get it. 

Loomis. 



Mr. Hay to Mr. Mahnros. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Washington., November -5, 1903. 

(Sent 10.30 p. ra.) 
If dispatch to Nashville has not been delivered inform her captain 
immediately that she must prevent Government troops departing for 
Panama or taking any action which would lead to bloodshed, and must 
use every endeavor to preserve order on Isthmus. 

Hay. 



Mr. Malmros to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Colon, Novemher If.., 1903. 

(Received 3.35 p. m.) 
Met captain of Nashville at 6 p. m. yesterday. Heard that message 
had been delivered to captain boat alongside of wharf instead of to 
me. No rebels or invading force near Panama or Colon or line of 
transit. Panama intended revolutionary movement known here to 
few persons only, up to 8 a. m. to-day. Revolutionary committee of 
six in Panama at 6 p. m. took charge of revolutionary movement. 
General Tobar and five officers taken prisoners. Panama in possession 
of committee with consent of entire population. This fact appears 
not known as yet to conservatives in Colon, Panama committee 
expect to have 1,500 men armed by this time. State of affairs at 



REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 9 

Panama not known by Colombian force at Colon as j^et. Official in 
command of disembarked force applied for transportation this morn- 
ing. Captain meanwhile communicated to committee about 10 p. m. 
last night his refusal to allow train with force to be sent to Panama 
and the committee assented. This leaves Colon in the possession of 
the Government. 

Malmros. 



M7\ Malmros to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Colon, Novemher 5, 1903. 

(Received 11.50 a. m.) 
On arrival yesterday morning's train Panama revolution and To bar's 
imprisonment became generally known; 12.30 commander Colombian 
troops threatens to kill every American unless Tobar released by 
2 p. m. Provisional Government informed these facts. Nashville 
landed 50 men; stationed in and near railroad office where Americans, 
armed, met. Negotiations Colombian commander and Panama Gov- 
ernment commenced and progressing. Hostilities suspended. Colom- 
bians occupy Colon and Monkey Hill. 

Malmros. 



Mr. Loomis to Mr. Malmros. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Washington, November 5, 1903. 

(Sent 5.10 p. m.) 
What is the situation this evening % 

Loomis, Acting. 



Mr. Malmros to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Colon, Novemher 6, 1903. 

(Received 9.34 p. m.) 
All Colombian soldiers at Colon now, 7 p. m., going on board Royal 
Mail steamer returning to Cartagena. Vessel, supposed to be Dixie., 
in sight. 

Malmros. 



Mr. Malmros to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Colon, Novemher 6, 1903. 

(Received 4.50 p. m.) 
Tranquillity absolute in Colon. Porfirio Melendez appointed gov- 
ernor of this province. Proclaimed Republic of Panama at Colon pre- 



10 EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OE^ PANAMA. 

fectiira at 10 o'clock a. m. English and French consuls present. I 
arrived after proclamation, and upon ni}^ suggestion I told governor 
that presence of consuls must not be looked upon as recognition of 
revolutionary state b}' their respective Governments. Melendez sent 
steam launch to Bocas del Toro to proclaim independence. 

Malmros. 



COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PANAMA GOVERNMENT. 

[Telegram.— Translation.] 

Panama, JVovemher 4, i903. 

(Received 8.45 p. m.) 
Secretary of State, Washington: 

We take the liberty of bringing to the knowledge of your Govern- 
ment that on 3^esterday afternoon, in consequence of a popular and 
spontaneous movement of the people of this city, the independence of 
the Isthmus was proclaimed and, the Republic of Panama being insti- 
tuted, its provisional government organizes an (executive) board con- 
sisting of ourselves, who are assured of the military strength neces- 
sary to carr}^ out our determination. 

Jose A. Arango. 
Federico Boyd. 
Tomas Arias. 



[Telegram. — Translation.] 

Panama, JVovemher 4, 1903. 

. (Received 10.30 p. m.) 
A. Su Excelencia Presidente de los Estados Unidos, 

Washington: 
The municipality of Panama is now (10 p. m.) holding a solemn ses- 
sion, and joins in the movement of separation of the Isthmus of Panama 
from the rest of Colombia. It hopes for recognition of our cause by 
your Government. 

Demetro S. BridZ 



[Telegram. — Translation.] 

Panama, November 5, 1903. 

(Received 8.48 p. m.) 
Secretary of State, Washington: 

We notify you that we have appointed Senor Philippe Bunau Varilla 
confidential agent of the Republic of Panama near your Government 
and Dr. Francisco V. de la Espriella minister of foreign affairs. 

Arango. 

Boyd. 

Arias. 



REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OP PANAMA. 11 

[Telegram. — Translation.] 

Panama, Novemher 6', 190o. 

(Received 10.40 a. m.) 
Secretary of State, Washington: 

Colon and all the towns of the Isthmus have adhered to the declara- 
tion of independence proclaimed in this city. The authorit}^ of the 
ile^Dublic of Panama is obeyed throughout its territory. 

Arango. 

Arias. 

Boyd. 



[Telegram. — Translation.] 

Panama, November 6^ 1903. 
Secretary of State, Washington: 

The board of provisional government of the Republic of Panama 
has appointed Seiior Philippe Bunau Varilla envoy extraordinary and 
minister plenipotentiary near your Government with full powers to 
conduct diplomatic and financial negotiations. Deign to receive and 
heed him. 

J. M. Arango, 
ToMAS Arias, 
Federico Boyd, 
Foreign Relations. 



[Telegram. — Translation.] 

New York, Noveniber 7, 1903. 

(Received 1.10 p. m.) 

His Excellencj^ John Hay, Secretary of State: 

I have the privilege and the honor of notifying you that the Gov- 
ernment of the Republic of Panama have been pleased to designate me 
as its envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary near the Gov- 
ernment of the United States. In selecting for its first representative 
at Washington a veteran servant and champion of the Panama Canal, 
my Government has evidentl}^ sought to show that it considers a loyal 
and earnest devotion to the success of that most heroic conception of 
human genius as both a solemn duty and the essential purpose of its 
existence. 1 congratulate myself, sir, that my first ofHcial duty should 
be to respectfully request you to convey to His Excellency the Presi- 
dent of the United States on behalf of the people of Panama an 
expression of the grateful sense of their obligation to his Government. 
In extending her generous hand so .spontaneoush^ to her latest born, 
the Mother of the American Nations is prosecuting her noble mission 
as the liberator and the educator of the peoples. In spreading her 
protecting wings over the territorv of our Republic the American 
Eagle has sanctified it. It has rescued it from the barbarism of unnec- 
essary and wasteful civil wars to consecrate it to the destiny assigned 
to it iDy Providence, the service of humanity and the progress of civili- 
zation. 

Philippe Bunau Varilla. 



12 EEVOLUTTON ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND 
THE UNITED STATES LEGATION AT BOGOTA. 

Mr. Beaupre to Mr. Hay. 

. [Telegram.] 

Bogota, Nove ruber .^, 190S. 
(Received November 6, 1903, 5 p. m.) 
Fourth, 5 p. m. Confidential. I have been shown telegram from 
reliable source in Panama to the effect that Isthmus is preparing for 
secession and that proclamation of independence may be expected 
soon. The particulars carefully guarded. Reliable ioformation hard 
to obtain. This Government is evidently alarmed and troops are being- 
sent to Isthmus. Repeat telegrams of importance from United States 
consul-general. His telegrams to me may be interfered with. 

Beaupee. 



Mr. Hay to Mr. Beaupre. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Washington^ Wovemher 6", 1903. 
The people of Panama having by an apparently unanimous move- 
ment dissolved their political connection with the Republic of Colom- 
bia and resumed their independence, and having adopted a government 
of their own — republican in form — with which the Government of the 
United States of America has entered into relations, the President of 
the United States, in accordance with the ties of friendship which have 
so long and so happily existed between the respective nations, most 
earnestly commends to the Governments of Colombia and of Panama the 
peaceful and equitable settlement of all questions at issue between 
them. He holds that he is bound not merely b}" treaty obligations 
but by the interests of civilization, to see that the peaceful traffic of 
the world across the Isthmus of Panama shall not longer be disturbed 
by a constant succession of unnecessary and wasteful civil wars. 

Hay. 



Mr. Beaupre to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Bogota, November 6", 1903. 
(Received November 8 — 11.05 p. m.) 
November 6, 6 p. m. Knowing that the revolution has alread}^ com- 
menced in Panama, says that if the Government of the 

United States will land troops to preserve Colombian sovereignty, and 
the transit, if requested by the Colombian charge d'affaires, this Gov- 
ernment will declare martial law, and by virtue of vested constitutional 
authority, when public order is disturbed, will approve by decree the 
ratification of the canal treaty as signed; or, if the Government of the 
United States prefers, will call extra session of Congress with new and 



REVOLU'J'ION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 13 

friendly members next Ma_y to approve the treaty. General Reyes 
has the perfect confidence of Vice-President, he says, and if it becomes 
necessary will go to the Isthmus or send representatives there to adjust 
matters along above lines to the satisfaction of the people there. If 
he goes he would like to act in harmony with the commander of the 
United States forces. This is the personal opinion of Reyes, and he 
will advise this Government to act accordingly. There is a great reac- 
tion of public opinion in favor of the treaty, and it is considered cer- 
tain that the treaty was not legally rejected by Congress. To-morrow 
martial law will be declared; 1,000 troops will be sent from the Pacific 
side; about the same number from the Atlantic side. Please answer 
bv telegraph. 

Beaupre. 



2L\ Beaupi'e to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 



Bogota, November 7, 1903. 
(Received November 10 — 7.30 p. m.) 
November T, 2 p. m. General Reyes leaves next Monday for Pan- 
ama, invested with full powers. He has telegraphed chiefs of the 
insurrection that his mission is to the interests of Isthmus. He wishes 
answer from you, before leaving, to the inquiry in my telegram of 
3^esterday, and wishes to know if the American commander will be 
ordered to cooperate with him and with new Panama Government to 
arrange peace and the approval of canal treaty, which will be accepted 
on condition that the integrity of Colombia be preserved. He has tele- 
graphed President of Mexico to ask the Government of the United 
States and all the countries represented at the Pan-American confer- 
ence to aid Colombia to preserve her integrity. The question of the 
approval of the treat}^ mentioned in my telegram of yesterda}^ will be 
arranged in Panama. He asks that before taking definite action you 
will await his arrival there, and that the Government of the United 
States in the meantime preserve the neutrality and transit of the 
Isthmus and do not recognize the new Government. Great excite- 
ment here. Martial law has been declared in the Cauca and Panama. 
Answer. • ' 

Beaupre. 



J/r. Beaupre to Mr. Hay'. 

[Telegram.] 

Bogota, Wovemher 7, 1903. 
(Received November 10, 7.55 p. m.) 
November 7, 6 p. m. As the Government of the United States has 
war vessels at Panama and Colon, minister for foreign affairs has 
requested me to ask, Will you allow Colombian Government to land 
troops at those ports to fight there and on the line of railwa}^? Also 
if the Government of the United States will take action to maintain 
Colombian right and sovereignty on the Isthmus in accordance with 
article 35, the treaty of 18-16, in case the Colombian Government is 
entirely unable to suppress the secession movement there? 



14 REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

I am entirely unable to elicit from minister for foreign affairs con- 
firmation of the promises made bj^ . 

Beaupre. 



Mr. Beaupre to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Bogota, Novemher P, 1903. 
(Received November 11, 12.30 a. m.) 

November 9, 9 a. m. I am desired to inform you b}' General Reyes 
that Gen. Bedronel Ospina and Lucas Cabellero, prominent party 
leaders, accompan}^ him on his mission. 

Very great excitement here. Large crowds paraded streets yester- 
day, crying "Down with Marroquin." Mass meeting denounced him; 
called for a change of government. Hundreds gathered at the palace, 
and their orator, a prominent national general, addressed the Presi- 
dent, calling for his resignation. Troops dispersed gathering, wound- 
ing several. Martial law is declared here, and the city is being- 
guarded by soldiers. Legation of the United States under strong 
guard, but apparently no indications of hostile demonstration. 

The residence of Lorenzo Marroquin attacked with stones. 

Referring to the questions presented by minister for foreign affairs 
in my telegram of 7th, 1 have preserved silence, but bear in mind page 
578, Foreign Relations, part 3, 1866, and instructions 134 to minister 
to the United States of Colombia, 1865. 

BEAUPRJil. 



Mr. Hay to Mr. Beaupre. 

[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 
Wai^hinqton., NoveDiber 11., 1903. 

(Sent 12.12 p. m.) 
Earnestl}^ desiring an amicable solution of matters at issue between 
Colombia and Panama, we have instructed our consul-general at 
Panama to use good offices to secure for General Rej^es' a courteous 
reception and considerate hearing. It is not thought desirable to per- 
mit landing of Colombian troops on Isthmus, as such a course would 
precipitate civil war and disturb for an indefinite period the free tran- 
sit which we are pledged to protect. I telegraphed you on November 6 
that we had entered into relations with the provisional government. 

Hay. 



CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE SECRETARY OF STATE AND 
THE CHARG:^ D'AFFAIRES OF COLOMBIA. 

Mr. Hay to Doctor Herran. 

Department of State, 

Washington., No'vemher 6', 1903. 
Dear Doctor Herran: 1 inclose copy of a dispatch which has to- 
day been sent to our minister at Bogota. 

Very sincerely, yours, John Hay. 



EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 15 

[Inc'losure,] 
Mr. Hay to Mr. Beaupre. 

[Telegram.] 

November (5, 1903. 
Beaupre, Bogota: 

The people of Panama having by an apparently unanimous movement dissolved 
their political connection with the Republic of Colombia and resumed their inde- 
pendence, and having adopted-a government of their own, republican in form, with 
which the Government of the United States of America has entered into relations, 
the President of the United States, in accordance with the ties of friendship which 
have so long and so happily existed between the respective nations, most earnestly 
commends to the governments of Colombia and Panama the peaceful and equitable 
settlement of all questions at issue between them. He holds that he is bound not 
merely by treaty obligations, but by the interests of civilization, to see that the 
peaceable traffic of the world across" the Isthmus of Panama shall not longer be dis- 
turbed by a constant succession of unnecessary and wasteful civil wars. 

Hay. 



Dr. Ilerran to Mr. Hay. 

[Translation.] 

Legation of Colombia, 
Washington, D. C, November 7, 190S. 

Excellency: 1 acknowledge the reception of your excellency's note 
of the 6th instant, inclosing- a copy of the telegram sent on the same 
day to the legation of the United States at Bogota b}^ the Department 
of Sta;te. 

In that telegram your excellency refers to the relations already en- 
tered into by the Government of the United States of America with 
the Colombian rebels who on the evening of the 3d usurped the 
power in the capital of the Colombian Department of Panama and 
imprisoned the lawful civil and military authorities. 

Your excellency will undoubtedly receive the reply of the Colombian 
Government through the same channel that was used to forward the 
notice of which your excellency was pleased to send me a copy, but, 
in the meanwhile, 1 am discharging a duty by lodging in advance with 
your excellency, in the name of my Government, a solemn protest 
against the attitude assumed in the Department of Panama, by the 
Government of the United States to the injury of Colombia's rights 
and in disaccord with the stipulations of article 35 of the still existing 
treaty of 1846-1848 between Colombia and the United States of 
America. 

I reiterate, etc., Tomas Herran. 



Mr. Hay to Dr. Herran. 

No. 22.] Department of State, 

Washington.^ Noveonher 11., 1903. 
Sir: 1 have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of 
the Tth instant, in which, acknowledging my communication of the 
6th instant, you are pleased, of your own motion and in the absence of 
instructions from your Government, to lodge a protest against the 
attitude assumed b}^ the Government of the United States in respect 
to the situation on the Isthmus of Panama. 

Accept, sir, etc., John Hay. 



16 REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

Mr. Toiver to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Embassy of the United States, 

Berlin, JVovemher 10, 1903. 

(Received 5.40 p. m.) 
In regard to the report telegraphed from New York that the Colom- 
bian consul-general there had declared that Colombian citizens had 
petitioned the Colombian Government to send a deputation to thank 
the German Government for its offered protection and to make con- 
cessions of land to Germanj' therefor, I have just received the assurance 
of the German minister for foreign ailairs that there is no truth what- 
ever in this report. He added that Germany has no interest in the 
Panama matter, and that the question of an interference on the part 
of Germany does not exist. 

Tower. 



Mr. Porter to Mr. Hay. 

[Telegram.] 

Embassy of the United States, 

Paris, Noveiiiber 11, 1903. 

(Received 3.60 p. m.) 
The French generall}^ are much pleased with events in Panama and 
our attitude there. In conversation with minister for foreign affairs 
he expressed himself in veiy sympathetic manner. Has authorized 
French consul at Panama to enter into relations with de facto govern- 
ment. Recognition will no doubt follow in time, and it seems to be 
disposition of European powers to await formal recognition by the 
United States before acting. 

Porter. 



RECEPTION OF MINISTER OF PANAMA. 

Mr. Vai'illa to Mr. Hay. 

[Translation.] 

Legation of the Republic of Panama, 

Washington, Novemher 11, 1903. 

Mr. Secretary of State: 

I have the very great honor to bring to your knowledge the fact 
that the Republic of Panama has designated me to fill, near the Gov- 
ernment of the United States of America, the post of envoy extraordi- 
nary and minister plenipotentiary with full powers to negotiate. 

While begging you, Mr. Secretary of State, to tran.smit to His 
Excellency the President of the Republic of the United States the 
substance of the present communication, I venture to ask you to solicit 
from his kindness the appointment of a date on which he will author- 
ize me to present to him my letters of credence. 
I have, etc. , 

P. BuNAU Varilla. 



REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 17 

Mr. Zoomit to Mr. Varilla. 

No. 1.] Department of State, 

Washington, November 1^, 1903. 

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledg-e the receipt of your note of 
the 11th instant, in which. you advise me that the Republic of Panama, 
has appointed you to fill, near this Government, the post of envoy 
extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary, with full powers to nego- 
tiate. 

You further ask that this information may be communicated 1)o the 
President and that he will kindl}'^ fix a date at which j^ou may present 
your letters of credence. 

In reply I have the honor to say that the President will be pleasf^d 
to receive you for the purpose mentioned to-morrow, Friday, at 9.e>p 
a. m. 

If you will be good enough to call at this Department shortl}^ before 
the hour mentioned, the Secretar}'^ of State will be pleased to accompany 
3^ou to the White House. 

Accept, etc., Francis B. Loomis, 

Acting Secretary. 



REMARKS MADE BY THE MINISTER OF PANAMA. 

Mr. President: In according to the minister plenipotentiary of the 
Republic of Panama the honor of presenting to 3^ou his letters of cre- 
dence you admit into the family of nations the weakest and the last 
born of the republics of the New World. 

It owes its existence to the ovitburst of the indignant grief which 
stirred the hearts of the citizens of the Isthmus on beholding the 
despotic action which sought to forbid their country from fulfilling 
the destinies vouchsafed to it by Providence. 

In consecrating its right to exist, Mr. President, you put an end to 
what appeared to be the interminable controversy as to the rival water- 
ways, and you definitely inaugurate the era of the achievement of the 
Panama Canal. 

From this time forth the determination of the fate of the canal 
depends upon two elements alone, now brought face to face, singularly 
unlike as regards their authority and power, but wholly equal in their 
common and ardent desire to see at last the accomplishment of the 
heroic enterprise for piercing the mountain barrier of the Andes. 

The highway from Europe to Asia, following the pathwaj^ of the 
sun, is now to be realized. 

The early attempts to find such a way unexpectedl)^ resulted in the 
greatest of all historic achievements, the discovery of America. Cen- 
turies have since rolled by, but the pathway sought has hitherto 
remained in the realm of dreams. To-day, Mr." President, in response 
to your summons, it becomes a realit3^ 

H. Doc. 8—2 



18 REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

THE president's REPLY TO THE REMARKS MADE BY SENOR BUNAU 
VARILLA ON THE OCCASION OF THE PRESENTATION OF HIS LETTERS 
OF CREDENCE. 

Mr. Minister: I am much gratified to receive the letters whereby 
you are accredited to the Government of the United States in the 
capacity of envoy extraordinaiy and minister plenipotentiary of the 
Kepublic of Panama. 

In accordance with its long-established rule, this Government has 
taken cognizance of the act of the ancient territory of Panama in reas- 
serti^ng the right of self-control and, seeing in the recent events on the 
Isthmus an unopposed expression of the will of the people of Panama 
and the confirmation of their declared independence by the institution 
oj a de facto government, republican in form and spirit, and alike able 
i^nd resolved to discharge the obligations pertaining to sovereignty, we 
■have entered into relations with the- new Republic. It is fitting that 
we should do so now, as we did nearly a century ago when the Latin 
peoples of America proclaimed the right of popular government, and 
it is equally fitting that the United States should, now as then, be the 
first to stretch out the hand of fellowship and to observe toward the 
new-born State the rules of equal intercourse that regulate the rela- 
tions of sovereignties toward one another. 

I feel that I express the wish of my countrymen in assuring 3"0u, 
and through vou the people of the Republic of Panama, of our earnest 
hope and desire that stability and prosperity shall attend the new State, 
and that, in harmony with the United States, it may be the providen- 
tial instrument of untold benefit to the civilized world through the 
opening of a highway of universal commerce across its exceptionally 
favored territory. 

For yourself, Mr. Minister, I wish success in the discharge of the 
important mission to which you have been called. 



Navy Department, 
Washington^ Novel nher i^, 1903. 
Sir: In accordance with the resolution of the House of Represent- 
atives of the 9th instant, calling for all correspondence and other 
official documents relating to the recent revolution on the Isthmus of 
Panama, I have the honor to transmit herewith all such matter on file 
in the Navy Department* 

Very respectfully, William H. Moody, 

Secretary. 
The President. 



Navy Department, 
Washington^ D. C, Novemher ^, 1903. 



[Translation.] 



Nashville, care American Consul.^ Colon: ^'' 

Maintain free and uninterrupted transit. If interruption threatened 
by armed force, occupy the line of railroad. Prevent landing of any 

« Same order to commander of Dixie, at Kingston, Jamaica. 



EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 19 

armed force with hostile intent, either Government or insurgent, 
either at Colon, Porto Bello, or other point. Send copy of instructions 
to the senior officer present at Panama upon arrival of Boston. Have 
sent copy of instructions and have telegraphed /A'izv'e to proceed with 
all possible dispatch from Kingston to Colon. Government force 
reported approaching the Isthmus in vessels. Prevent their landing 
if in 3^our judgment this would precipitate a conflict. Acknowledg- 
ment is required. 

Darling, Acting. 



Navy Department, 
Washingt07i, D. C, Novemher'B, 1903. 
Glass, Marhlehead., Acapulco: " 

Proceed with all possible dispatch to Panama. Telegraph in cipher 
your departure. Maintain free and uninterrupted transit. If inter- 
ruption is threatened b}^ armed force occupy the line of railroad. Pre- 
vent landing of any armed force, either Government or insurgent, with 
hostile intent at anj^ point within 50 miles of Panama. If doubtful as 
to the intention of any armed force, occupy Ancon Hill stronglj^ with 
artillery. If the Wyoming would delay Concord and MarhlduKid her 
disposition must be left to your discretion. Government force reported 
approaching the Isthmus in vessels. Prevent their landing if in j^our 
judgment landing would precipitate a conflict. 

Darling, Acting. 



Navy Department, 
Washington.^ D. C. , November 3^ 1903. 
Cruiser Atlanta, Kingston.^ Jamaica: 

Proceed with all possible dispatch to Colon. Acknowledge immedi- 
atel3^ When will you sail? 

Darling, Acting. 



Navy Department, 
Washington., D. C, Noveinher 3., 1903. 
Nashville, Colon: 

In the interest of peace make every efl^ort to prevent Government 
troops at Colon from proceeding to Panama. The transit of the Isth- 
must be kept open and order maintained. Acknowledge. 

Darling, Acting. 



Navy Department, 
Washington., D. C, November 3., 1903. 
American Consul, Panama: 

Message sent Nashville to Colon may not have been delivered. 
Accordingly see that the following message is sent to Nashville 
immediately: 



« Same to commander of Boston at San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. 



20 EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

Nashville, Colon: 

In the interest of peace make every effort to prevent Government troops at Colon 
from proceeding to Panama. The transit of the Isthmus must be kept open and 
order maintained. Acknowledge. 

Darling, Acting. 
Secure special trains if necessary. Act promptly. 

LooMis, Acting. 



[Translation.] 

Navy Department, 
Washington, D. C, Nommler If., 1903. 
Nashville, Colon: 

Gunboat of Colombia shelling Panama. Send immediately battery 
3-inch field gun and 6-pounder with a force of men to Panama to com- 
pel cessation bombardment. Railroad must furnish transportation 
immediately. 

Darling, Acting. 



[Translation.] 

Washington, D. C, Wovemher 5, 1903. 
Boston, care of American consul.^ Panama: 

Prevent recurrence bombardment of Panama. Acknowledge. 

Moody. 



Navy Department, 
Washington, D. C, Novemler 6, 1903. 
Nashville, Colon: 

Prevent any armed force of either side from landing at Colon, Porto 
Bello, or vicinity. 

Moody. 



[Translation.] 

Washington, D. C, Novemher 6", 1903. 
Maine, Woods Hole, Mass.: 

Proceed at once to Colon, coaling wherever necessary to expedite 
your arrival. Acknowledge. 

Moody. 



[Translation.] 

Washington, D. C, Novemher 9, 1903. 
DiEHL, Boston: 

Upon the arrival of the MarUehead sufiicient force must be sent to 
watch movements closely of the British steamers seized at Buenaven- 
tura and to prevent the landing of men with hostile intent within limits 
of the State of Panama. Protect the British steamers if necessary. 

Moody. 



EE VOLUTION OK THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 21 



[Translation.] 



Washington, D. C, Novemher 10, 1903. 
Glass, Marbleliead^ Panama: 

Reported that the British steamers at Buenaventura were not 
detained. Did they leave with Colombian troops aboard? 

Moody. 



[Translation.] 

Colon, Octoher 16, 1903. 
Secnav, Washington., D. C: 

Report is current to the effect that a revolution has broken out in 
the State of Cauca. Everything is quiet on the Isthmus unless a 
change takes place. On this account there is no necessity to remain 
here. Do not think it necessary to visit St. Andrews Island. 

Hubbard, 
Commanding Officer U. S. 8. NasJimlle. 



[Translation.] 



Colon, Nov^mler 3, 1903. 



Secnav, Washington, D. C. : 

Receipt of youv telegram of November 2 is acknowledged. Prior 
to receipt this morning about 400 men were landed here by the Gov- 
ernment of Colombia from Cartagena. No revolution has been declared 
on the Isthmus and no disturbances. Railway company have declined 
to transport these troops except by request of the governor of Panama. 
Request has not been made. It is possible that movement may be 
made to-night at Panama to declare independence, in which event I 
^^j]^ * * % (message mutilated here) here. Situation is most 
critical if revolutionary leaders act. 

Hubbard. 



[Translation. | 

Colon, Novemher Ji, 1903. 
Secnav, Washington: 

Provisional government was established at Panama Tuesday evening; 
no organized opposition. Governor of Panama, General Tobar, Gen- 
eral Amaya, Colonel Morales, and three others of the Colombian 
Government troops who arrived Tuesday morning taken prisoner at 
Panama. I have prohibited transit of troops now here across the 
Isthmus. 

Hubbard 



Colon, Novemher If., 1903. 
Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. : 

Government troops yet in Colon. Have prohibited transportation 
of troops either direction. No interruption of transit as jQ.t. Will 
make every effort to preserve peace and order. 

Hubbard. 



22 EEVOLUTIOlSr ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

Colon, Wovemher ^, 1903. 
Secnav, Washifigton, D. C. : 

I have landed force to protect the lives and property of American 
citizens here against threats Colombian soldier3\ I km protecting 
water front with ship. I can not possibly send to'^ Panama until affairs 
are settled at Colon, 

HUBBAED. 



AcAPULCo, Mexico, Novemher 4, 1903. 
Secretary Navy, Washington., JD. C. : 

Marhlehead and Concord to Panama to-day 4 p. m. ; Wyoming will 
follow to-morrow afternoon. If Boston is to go with squadron, I would 
suggest Department will order her to rendezvous off Cape Mala, 
Colombia, about 6 p. m. , on November 9. I have ordered Wero to Aca- 
pulco. I will leave sealed orders for her to proceed without delaj^ to 
Panama unless otherwise directed. 

Glass. 



Colon, JSfommher 5, 1903 — 9.1t,l a. m. 
Secnav, Washington., D. C. : 

British man-of-war Amphion is protecting American interests at 
Panama. Reported bombardment much exaggerated. 

Hubbard. 



Colon, Nouemher 5, 1903 — 9.Jf5 a. on. 
Secnav, Washington D. C. : 

Have withdrawn force landed Wednesday afternoon. No bloodshed. 
I do not apprehend difficult}^ of anj^ serious nature. 

Hubbard. 



Colon, November 5, 1903. 
Secretary of the Navy, Washington., D. C. : 

Situation here this morning again acute. Have deemed advisable to 
reland force. 

Hubbard. 



[Translation.] 

Colon, November 5. 
Secnav, Washington: 

Atlas Line's steamer, with large body of troops, reported sailing 
from Cartagena, Colombia. 

Hubbard. 



Navy Department, 
Washington^ D. C. , Colon, November 6, 1903, 
Secretary of the Navy, 

Washi^igton., D. C: 
All quiet. Independents declare Government established as Repub- 
lic of Panama. Have withdrawn marines. 

Delano. 



KE VOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 28 

Colon, JSfoveniher 6, 1903—9.15 a. m.. 
Secnav, Washington : 

Arrived Thursday evening; landed force. Following conditions 
prevailing: Just before landing all the troops of Colombia have left 
for R. M. S. P. Company's steamer Orinoco for Cartagena. Inde- 
pendent party in possession of Colon, Panama, and railroad line. 
JSfasJiviUe withdrawn force. 

Delano. 

[Translation.] 

Panama, N'ovemher 7,, 1903 — 7J-fl]). m. 
Secnav, Washington: 
All quiet; traffic undisturbed; message to prevent received. 

DiEHL. 

Colon, Noveiiiber 5, 1903 — 7.05 p. m. 
Secnav, Washington., D. C: 

Atlanta left yesterday for Bocas del Toro. 

Delano. 



Panama, N'ovemher 9. 
Seceetary of the Navy, 

Washington: 
The British consul and the minister of war of the provisional gov- 
ernment fear seizure of two British steamers at Buenaventura to trans- 
port troops convoyed by gunboat. Prevailed upon minister to dispatch 
gunboat, fearing possible destruction British steamers. The landing 
of troops in the territory within the limit under my control will cause 
prolonged campaign. Instructions from the Department are requested. 

DiEHL. 



Panama, Novein'ber 10., 1903. 
Secnav: • 

Your telegram of the 9th of November to the Boston acknowledged. 
No interference British vessels yet. Report seems to be well founded 
that the steamship Bogota sailed from Buenaventura ^^esterday after- 
noon with 1,000 for Rio Dulce. Have sent Concord to patrol in that 
vicinity in order to prevent landing. Everything is quiet at Panama. 

Glass. 

O 



58th Congress, ) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. J Doc. No. 8, 

1st Session. \ I Part 2. 



REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 



MESSAGE 

FROM THE 



PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 



TEANSMITTING 



ADDITIONAL COBIIESPONDENCE REIiATING TO THE RECENT 
REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 



NovEMBEE 27, 1903. — Read; referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and 
ordered to be printed. 



To the House of Representatives: 

In response to a resolution of the House of Representatives of 
November 9, 1903, requesting the President "to communicate to the 
House, if not, in his judgment, incompatible with the interests of the 
public service, all correspondence and other official documents relating 
to the recent revolution on the Isthmus of Panama," I transmit here- 
with copies of additional papers on the subject which have been 
received subsequent to the resolution referred to. 

Theodore Roosevelt. 

White House, 

Washington^ Novemher ^7, 1903. 



The President: 

The Secretar}'^ of State, to whom was referred a copy of the resolu- 
tion of the House of Representatives of Nov^ember 9, 1903, requesting 
copies of all correspondence and other official documents relating to 
the recent revolution on the Isthmus of Panama, has the honor to lay 
before the President copies of additional correspondence on the sub- 
ject received subsequent to the resolution referred to. 

Respectfully submitted. 

John Hay. 

Department of State, 

Washington^ JSfovember ^4, 1903. 



2 EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

No. 464.] Consulate -General of the United States, 

Panama, November 9, 1903, 
Hon. Francis B. Loomis, 

Assistant Secretary of State,, Washington., D. C. 

Sir: I have the honor to say that on the 5th instant I received from 
the Committee of the Provisional Government a circular letter (No. 1), 
dated November 4, 1903, informing me that Panama had dissolved its 
political relations with the Republic of Colombia and requesting me 
to acknowledge receipt of circular. Inclosed please lind translation of 
circular letter, marked "A." 1 immediately cabled the Department 
the contents of said circular letter, and upon receipt of the Depart- 
ment's cable instructing me to acknowledge receipt of circular and 
await instructions, I wrote acknowledging same. Please find copy of 
my letter, marked "B." 

On receipt of the two telegrams from the Department in regard to 
entering into relations with the local authorities here, being satisfied 
that there was a de facto government established, and as there was no 
opposition to same in the State of Panama, I wrote on the morning of 
the 7th to the committee, informing them that th^j would be held 
responsible for the protection of the persons and property of Ameri- 
can citizens, as well as responsible for carrying out treaty obligations, 
in accordance with treaties in regard to Isthmian territory. Inclosed 
please find copy of my letter, marked " C. " 

On the afternoon of the Sth instant I received a letter from the min- 
ister of foreign relations, saying that the Republic of Panama would 
protect American citizens and their property, as well as to carry out 
all treaty obligations in regard to Isthmian territory. Liclosed find 
translation of letter, marked "D." 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

Felix Ehrman, 
United States Yice- Consul- Oeneral. 



[Translation.] 

CiRCULAEl Republic of Panama, Provisional Government, 

No. 1. i Panama, November 4, 1903. 

Sir: We have the honor of informing you, for your knowledge and that of the 
Government which you represent, that in this date a political movement has taken 
place by which the former department of Panama is separated from the Republic of 
Colombia, in order to constitute a new state under the name of ' ' Eepublic of Panama, ' ' 
and that those who subscribe themselves have received the honor of being designated 
to form the Committee of the Provisional Government of the Eepublic. 

We beg you to kindly acknowledge receipt and accept the sentiments of considera- 
tion, which it is pleasing to subscribe ourselves. 

Your attentive servants, J- A. Arango. 

ToMAS Arias. 
Federico Boyd. 
The Consul-General of the United States of North America, Pte. 



B. 

Panama, November 5, 1903. 

Messrs. J. A. Arango, Tomas Arias, and Federico Boyd, 

Committee of the Provisional Government, Panama. 
Sirs: I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your circular letter No. 1, dated 
November 4, 1903. 

I am, sirs, very respectfully, yours, Felix Ehrman, 

United States Vice- Consul- General. 



REVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 6 

0. 

Panama, November 7, 1903. 

Messrs. J. A. Akango, Tomas Arias, and Federico Boyd, 

Committee of the Provisional Government, present. 
Gents: As it appears that the people of Panama have, by unanimous movement, 
dissolved their political connection with theRepubhc of Colombia and resumed their 
independence, and as there is no opposition to the Provisional Government in the 
State of Panama, I have to inform you that the Provisional Government will be held 
responsible for the protection of the persons and property of citizens of the United 
States, as well as to keep the Isthmian transit free, in accordance with obligations of 
existing treaties relative to the Isthmian territory. 

I have the honor to remain, gentlemen, very respectfully, 

Felix Ehrman, 
United States Vice- Consul- General. 



D. 

[Translation.] 

^o. 2.] Eepublic op Panama, 

Panama, November 8, 1903. 

Sir: The Committee of the Provisional Government, informed of your communi- 
cation of yesterday, has requested me to inform you that the Republic of Panama 
shelters the most sincere determination of protecting, as it has so far protected, the 
lives and properties of the United States citizens, determination that involves for the 
Republic a sacred and pleasant duty, and that in regard to the obligations existing 
on account of treaties in connection with the isthmian territories heretofore with the 
Republic of Colombia are now with the Republic of Panama that has substituted the 
former in them and their rights. 

With the sentiments of the highest consideration, I beg to remain. 
Very attentive servant, 

F. V. DE LA ESPRIELLA. 

The Vice-Consul-Geneeal op the United States op America. 



No. 463.] Consulate-General of the United States, 

Panama, Novemher 9, 1903. 

Hon. Francis B. Loomis, 

Assistani ^ecrdary of State, Washington, D. C. 
Sir: I have the honor to report that on the 3d of November, at about 
6 p. m., there occurred an uprising in the city of Panama. It seems 
that everything had been prearranged with the officials of the army 
and navy, as there was practically accord among all the officers. Gen- 
eral Tovar, General Castro, and Commander Tovar of the gunboat 
Bogota, finding out about the movement j ust a short while before it 
occurred, rushed to the barracks in the hope of frustrating the plans, 
but on their arrival General Huertas, second in command of the troops 
stationed at Panama, and chief of the " Colombia Battalion," ordered 
the soldiers out and arrested the above-mentioned generals, together 
with Governor Obaldia. The movement was to occur at 8 o'clock, but 
as the people had assembled and everything in readiness they moved 
at 6 o'clock. At 8 o'clock a boat was sent off from the gunboat Bogota, 
saying that unless Generals Tovar and Castro were set at liberty im- 
mediately they would bombard the town. This note was not answered 
by the people on shore. 



4 EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

At about 10 o'clock on the night of the 3d the Bogota fired several 
shells, which were answered by the fort. These shots struck in differ- 
ent parts of the city, and one Chinaman was killed. After firing, the 
Bogota hoisted her anchor and steamed awa5^ She was supposed to 
be behind some islands which are directly in front of Panama. On the 
morning of the 4:th I received information direct from one of the chiefs 
of the movement, and he said that the Bogota had threatened to again 
bombard the city, and on this I immediately sent word by telegraph 
to the commander of the Nashville and cabled the Department. The 
consular corps met in this consulate-general and decided to send a 
protest to the commander of the Bogota^ protesting against the action 
of the commander. Inclosed please find copy of protest, marked "A." 
This letter was not sent, as the Bogota was not in sight and no boats 
were available at the time. The gunboat Tv^enty-f^st of Novemher 
{Padilla) was lying off Panama all this time, but did not try to inter- 
cept or pursue the Bogota. On the morning of the 4th the Twenty- 
first ofNovemher came in and anchored near the fort, and in the after- 
noon of the same day hauled down the Colombian flag and hoisted the 
flag of Panama. In the afternoon of the 4:th, at 3 p. m., there was a 
general mass meeting held in the central plaza, and the declaration of 
independence was read and signed. The following is a list of the 
Government officials, as given me by the Committee of the Provisional 
Government: 

Committee of Provisional Government, J. A. Arango, Tomas Arias, 
and Federico Boyd; minister of government, Eusebio A. Morales; 
minister of foreign relations, F. V. De la Espriella; minister of war 
and marine, Nicanor A. De Obarrio; minister of justice, Carlos A. 
Mendoza; minister of finance, Manuel E. Amador; minister of public 
instruction, Julio J. Fabrega; chief of the division of Panama, Gen. 
Domingo Diaz; general in chief of the army of the Republic, Gen. 
Esteban Huertas; commander of civil batallion. Gen. Manuel Quin- 
tero; general treasui'er of the Republic, Senor Albino Arosemena; 
commander of the gunboat Twenty fi7'st of November, Gen. H. O. 
Jeffries. 

I may say that the above mentioned are all men of high standing in 
Panama and men who have had wide experience in public affairs. 

During the recent troubles I am pleased to state that everything 
was carried on in an orderly manner, and I have not heard of a case 
where foreigners were threatened or molested in any way. 

Inclosed I send you clipping from the Star and Herald of this city 
containing a translation of the declaration of independence and mani- 
festo by the Committee of the Provisional Government, marked " B." 

We have heard several stories of the happenings in Colon, but I will 
leave that to be reported on from Colon, as we have received nothing 
definite. The declaration of independence was read and signed at 
Colon at 1.30 p. m. on the afternoon of the 5th instant. 

Telegrams have been received from different parts of the depart- 
ment of Panama, and all say that independence has been unanimously 
declared. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

Felix Ehrman, 
United States Vice- Consul- General. 



EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PAJSTAMA. 5 

A. 

[Translation.] 

Panama, November 4, 190.3. 
The Commander of the Bogota, 

Sir: The consular corps of this city considers the action of the steamship Bogota, 
under your command, last night in bombarding a defenseless city without advice of 
any kind to the consuls is contrary to all rights and practice of civilized nations. 
Consequently the consular corps protests in the most solemn manner ,_ and holds 
responsible for the consequences and responsibilities of this act whoever is to blame, 
furnishing account to their respective governments of the referred circumstance. 
Yours respectfully, 

Felix Ehrman, 
United States Vice-Consul- General. 

E. H. ROHRWEGER, 

Acting British Vice-Consul. 
Emile Grey, 

Agent of the French Consulate. 
Arthur Kohpcke, 
Consul of Germany and in charge of Italian Consulate. 

A. Jesurum, jr., 

Consul of Holland. 
Ed. Jaramillo Aviles, 

Consul of Ecuador. 
J. F. Arango, 

Consul-General of Guatemala. 
Federico Boyd, 
CoiumI of Spain and of Salvador. 
Jacob L. Maduro, 

Consul of Denmark. 

B. D. FiDANaUE, 

Consul of Belgica. 

J. G. DUQUE, 

Consul of Cuba. 
B. Mendez, 

Consul of Mexico. 
Pedro Arias, 

Consul of Brazil. 
Jeronimo Ossa, 
Consul of Chile and Honduras. 
Juan Vallarino, 

Consul of Peru. 



B. 

Declaration of independence and manifesto. 

[Extract from Star and Herald, Panama (Republic of Panama), Thursday, November 6, 1903.] 

Independence op Panama. 

"Viva la Republica de Panama!" 

"Viva la independencia!" 

At last the State of Panama has avs'akened from the torpor which appeared to have 
overpowered all branches of its population. The people have at last come to the 
conclusion that there was no hope for their future as long as they remained under 
the jurisdiction of the national Government as a department of the Republic of 
Colombia and have risen in a body to protest to the injustice meditated by the 
Bogota Government toward them in refusing its sanction to the Herran-Hay canal 
treaty, the passing of which treaty actually means life or death to the State of 
Panama. 

The cry of independence was started on the evening of the 3d and taken up by 
every Isthmian as one body, as well as all those in sympathy with the cause. 
Due to the celebrated Battalion Colombia, under the command of their intrepid and 



6 BEYOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 

universally -beloved commander, Gen. E. Huertas, being in sympathy with the move- 
ment and declaring themselves on the side of the "separatists," all bloodshed, fight- 
ing, etc., has been avoided, the greatest order and unity reigning on all sides. The 
populace repaired without distinction to the arsenal and were supplied with the 
necessary arms with which to uphold their independence. 

The movement had been planned to take place later on, but was precipitated by 
tlie arrival at Colon of 300 troops under command of Generals Tovar and Amaya on 
the Cartagena on the night of the 2d instant. The only deplorable incident has been 
the killing of two Chinamen and part destruction of two buildings in the city by 
some shells thrown from the cruiser Bogota, the commander of which refused his 
adhesion to the cause and threatened to bombard the city unless Generals Tovar and 
Amaya and their staffs, who were imprisoned on the afternoon of the 3d while 
attempting to take command of the garrison in this city, were released within three 
hours. 

This request was not acceded to, in consequence of which the threat was carried 
out, but as the ship has got very little coal and supplies there is no doubt that she 
will not be able to hold out long and will have to surrender to the 31 de Noviembre, 
which is being gotten ready for giving chase. The consular corps met and signed 
the following formal protest: 

Panama, November 4, 1903. 
The Commander of the Bogota. 

Sir: The consular corps of this city considers the action of the steamship Bogota, 
under your command, last night in bombarding a defenseless city, without advice of 
any kind to the consuls, is contrary to all right and practice of civilized nations. 
Consequently the consular corps protests in the most solemn manner, and holds respon- 
sible for the consequences and responsibilities of this act whoever is to blame, fur- 
nishing account to their respective governments of the referred-to circumstance. 
Yours, respectfully, 

Felix Ehrman, 
United States Vice- Consul- General. 

E. H. EOHRWEGER, 

Acting British Vice- Consul. 
Emile Grey, 
Agent of the French Consulate. 
Arthur Koehpcke, 
Consul of Germany and in charge of the Italian Consulate. 

A. Jesurum, Jr., 

Consul of Holland. 
Ed. Jaramillo Aviles, 

Consul of Ecuador. 
I. F. Arango, 

Consul-General of Guatemala. 
Federico Boyd, 
Consul of Spain and of Salvador. 
Jacob L. Madtjro, 

Consul of Denmark. 

B. D. FiDANaXJE, 

Consul of Belgica. 

J. G. DUQUE, 

Consul of Cuba. 
B. Mendez, 

Consul of Mexico. 
Pedro Arias, 

Consul of Brazil. 
Jeronimo Ossa, 
Consul of Chile and Honduras. 
Juan Vallarino, 

Consul of Peru. 

In compliance with an invitation stuck up and distributed all over the city by the 
municipal board, Demetrio H. Brid, president, a public meeting of all the corpora- 
tions, civilians, military and religious bodies took place at 3 p. m. yesterday at the 
Cathedral Park, where the act of independence was signed by the members of_ the 
municipaUty, the chiefs of the Provisional Government, etc., after which patriotic 
speeches were delivered in profusion. 

The Provisional Government has been composed of the following gentlemen: Jose 
Agustin Arango, Federico Boyd, and Tomas Arias, with the following ministers: 
State, E. A. Morales; treasury, M. E. Amador; justice, C. A. Mendoza; foreign rela- 
tions, F. V. de la Espriella; war and navy, N. A. de Obarrio. 



EEVOLUTION ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 7 

From latest information we regret to state that Colon does not appear inclined to 
join the movement for separation. A commission from that city arrived yesterday 
evening to consult with the chiefs of the Provisional Government here, and we sin- 
cerely hope that the differences of opinion existing may be amicably settled in order 
to avoid all disturbance. The manifesto and declaration of independence we have 
translated for the benefit of our English readers. 

We voice the sentiments of one and all, natives as well as foreigners, m wishmg 
great prosperitv to the new Republic. 

Hurrah for the Republic of Panama 1 

Hurrah for the third of November! 

DECLAEATION OF INDEPENDENCE. 

In the city of Panama, capital of the district of the same name, at 4 o'clock in the 
afternoon of the 4th day of November, 1903, the municipal council by its own right 
assembled, there being"present the following members of the city council: Aizpuru, 
Rafael; Arango, Ricardo M.; Arias, F. Agustin; Arosemena, Fabio; Brid, Demetrio 
H.; Chiari, R. Jose Maria; Cucalon, P.; Manuel, J.; Dominguez, Alcides; Lewis, 
Samuel; Linares, Enrique; McKay, Oscar M.; Mendez, Manuel Maria, and Valla- 
rino, Dario, the mayor of the district and the municipal attorney, and having for its 
exclusive object to debate regarding the situation in which the country is at present, 
and to decide regarding what should be most convenient toward the tranquillity for 
the development and aggrandizement of the citizens that constitute the ethnographic 
and political entity denominated the Isthmus of Panama. 

Oouncilmen Arias, F., Arosemena, Chiari, Brid, Cucalon, B., Aizpuru, Lewis, and 
Linares carefully took under special consideration the historical facts by virtue of 
which the Isthmus of Panama, by its own free will and in hopes of procuring for 
itself the ample benefits of right and liberty, cut asunder, on the 28th of November, 
1821, its ties from Spain, and spontaneously joined its destiny to that of the great 
Republic of Colombia. Reflections were made tending to show that the union of 
the Isthmus with the old and modern Colombia did not produce the benefits that 
were expected from this act, and on mature consideration particular mention was 
made of the great and incessant injury that has 'been caused to the Isthmus of Pan- 
ama in its material and moral interests at all times by the governments of the nation 
which have succeeded each other during the intervals of the federation, as well as 
those of the centralization— injuries which, instead of being looked after and patri- 
otically remedied by those whose duty it was, were being augmented each day and 
increasing in importance with a persistency and ignorance that has exterminated in 
the cities of the Department of Panama the inclinations which were spontaneously 
felt for Colombia, thus demonstrating to them that, their cup of bitterness overflow- 
ing and all hope of the future being lost, the moment had arrived in which to dis- 
solve certain ties which were a drawback to civilization, which placed insurmountable 
barriers to all progress, and which, on the whole, has produced unhappiness, upset- 
ting and undoing the ends of the political union in which they entered, moved by 
the necessity. to satisfy the desire of prospering within the right respected and liberty 
assured. 

In view of the circumstances mentioned, the municipal council of the district of 
Panama, as a faithful interpreter of the sentiments of those they represent, declares 
in a solemn form that the people under their jurisdiction from to-day and henceforth 
sever their ties with Colombia in order to form, with the other towns of the Depart- 
ment of Panama that accept the separation and unite wdth them, the State of Panama, 
so as to constitute a republic with an independent government, democratic, repre- 
sentative, and responsible, that would tend to the happiness of the natives and of the 
other inhabitants of the territory of the Isthmus. 

In order to practically attain the fulfillment of the resolution of the peoples of 
Panama of emancipating themselves from the Government of Colombia, making use 
of their autonomy in order to dispose of their destiny, to establish a new nationality 
free from all foreign elements, the municipal council of the district of Panama, for 
itself and in the name of the other municipal councils of the department, places the 
administration, working, and direction of affairs, temporarily and while the new 
Republic be constituted, in a board of government composed of Messrs. Jose Agustin 
Arango_, Federico Boyd, and Tomas Arias, in whom and without any reserve what- 
soever it gives powers, authorizations, and faculties necessary and sufficient for the 
satisfactory compliance of the duties which in the name of the Fatherland are con- 
fided to them. 

It was ordered that the inhabitants of Panama be assembled to an open council in 
order to submit for their approval the ordinance that the present minutes contain, 
and which was signed by the officers and members of the corporation present. 



8 EEVOLUTIOIS" ON THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. ^ 

Demetrio H. Brid, E. Aizpuru, A. Arias F., Manuel J. Cucalon P., Fabio Arose- 
mena, Oscar M. McKay, Alcides Dominguez, Enrique Linares, J. M. Chiari R., Dario 
Vallarino, S. Lewis, Manuel M. Mendez. 

The secretary of the council, Ernesto J. Goti. 

In our next issue we will publish the very extensive list of the signers of the above 
declaration, 

MANIFESTO. 

The transcendental act that by a spontaneous movement the inhabitants of the 
Isthmus of Panama have just executed is the inevitable consequence of a situation 
which has become graver daily. 

Long is the recital of the grievances that the inhabitants of the Isthmus have suf- 
fered from their Colombian brothers; but those grievances would have been with- 
stood with resignation for the sake of harmony and national union had its separation 
been possible and if we could have entertained well-founded hopes of improvement 
and of effective progress under the system to which we were submitted by that 
Republic. We have to solemnly declare that we have the sincere and profound con- 
viction that all the hopes were futile and useless, all the sacrifices on our part. 

The Isthmus of Panama has been governed by the Republic of Colombia with the 
narrow-mindedness that in past times were applied to their colonies by the European 
nations — the isthmian people and territory was a source of fiscal resources and nothing 
.more. The contracts and negotiations regarding the railroad and the Panama Canal 
and the national taxes collected in the Isthmus have netted to Colombia tremendous 
sums which we will not detail, not wishing to appear in this exposition which will 
go down to posterity as being moved by a mercenary spirit, which has never been 
nor is our purpose; and of these large sums the Isthmus has not received the benefit 
of a bridge for any of its numerous rivers, nor the construction of a single road between 
its towns, nor of any public building, nor of a single college, and has neither seen any 
interest displayed in advancing her industries, nor has a most infinite part of those 
sums been applied toward her prosperity. 

A very recent example of what we have related above is what has occurred with 
the negotiations of the Panama Canal, which, when taken under consideration by 
Congress, was rejected in a summary manner. There were a few public men who 
expressed their adverse opinion, on the ground that the Isthmus of Panama alone 
was to be favored by the opening of the canal by virtue of a treaty with the United 
States, and that the rest of Colombia would not receive any direct benefits of any 
sort by that work, as if that way of reasoning, even though it be correct, would jus- 
tify the irreparable and i^erpetual damage which would be caused to the Isthn:ius by 
the rejection of the treaty in the manner in which it was done, which was equivalent 
to the closing of the doors to future negotiations. 

The people of the Isthmus, in view of such notorious causes, have decided to 
recover their sovereignty and begin to form a part of the society of the free and inde- 
pendent nations, in order to work out its own destiny, to insure its future in a stable 
manner, and discharge the duties which it is called on to do by the situation of its 
territory and its immense richness. 

To that we, the initiators of the movement effected, aspire and have obtained a 
unanimous approval. 

We aspire to the formation of a true republic, where tolerance will prevail, where 
the law should be the invariable guide of those governing and those governed, where 
effective peace be established, which consists in the frequent and harmonious play 
of all interests and all activities, and where, finally, civilization and progress will 
find perpetual stability. 

At the commencement of the life of an independent nation we fully appreciate the 
responsibilities that state means, but we have profound faith in the good sense and 
patriotism of the isthmian people, and we possess sufficient energy to open our way 
by means of labor to a happy future without any worry or any danger. 

At separating from our brothers of Colombia we do it without any hatred and 
without any joy. Just as a son withdraws from his paternal roof, the isthniian 
people in adopting the lot it has chosen have done it with grief, but in compliance 
with the supreme and inevitable duty it owes to itself — that of its own preservation 
and of working for its own welfare. 

We therefore begin to form a part among the free nations of the world, consider- 
ing ( Vjloinbia as a sister nation, v, ith which we shall be whenever circumstances may 
require it, and jEor whose prosxjerity we have the most fervent and sincere wishes. 

Jose Agustin Arango. 
Fedeeico Boyd. 
ToMAs Arias. 

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